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Top picks in Five Points

Authentic lunch spots

You want a midday meal that respects the traditions of the cuisine instead of offering a watered-down version.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
20th Street Mexican Cafe image 1
20th Street Mexican Cafe image 2
20th Street Mexican Cafe image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican diner blends exposed brick and classic city diner vibe with Mexican decor. Atmosphere feels homey and inviting, with Banda music adding to the friendly energy. Family-run with authentic flavors and generous portions creates a welcoming, authentic experience.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with red Chile and soft white corn tortillas. Breakfast options like the burrito and huevos rancheros offer a homemade, real taste true to traditional cuisine.

Offers affordable Mexican lunch options with a solid menu for both breakfast and lunch. Popular spot for a casual midday meal in downtown.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"These breakfast burritos are the best handhelds I've ever had."

"This lunch spot has unbeatable handheld burritos for the price."

Good to know

1

The cafe opens early at 6:00 AM for breakfast.

2

Prices for breakfast burritos are under $10.

3

Parking can be difficult to find nearby.

02
Chili Shack Larimer image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with Colorado murals and Denver sports graffiti creates a laid-back, inviting atmosphere. A salsa bar offers various toppings, while TVs play comedy, news, or crime shows. The vibe stays casual and friendly, with affordable prices and fresh ingredients.

Southern-style cuisine shines with authentic flavors in dishes like the consomรฉ. Mexican food here stays true to its roots, offering a genuine taste experience.

Bright murals add a vibrant atmosphere to lunch here. Portions are generous, often leaving plenty of leftovers for later.

People are saying

"The chili here is amazing and has just the right heat."

"You have to try their breakfast burrito; it's a must-try."

"I thought the birria tacos were the best, with plenty of meat."

Good to know

1

Chili Shack Larimer is open until 1:30 or 2:00 am for late-night visits.

2

Expect quick service; fries are ready in about 10 minutes.

3

The menu features a large variety of Mexican food choices.

03
Beyond Thai Cafe image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, functional space offers a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere with a cozy, humble vibe. Steady and uncomplicated environment suits those seeking a quiet, dependable spot. Friendly neighborhood feel complements the authentic Thai experience.

Strong menu offers authentic Thai flavors with simple, genuine dishes. Food tastes true to traditional recipes, making it a reliable spot for authentic Thai food.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"Melinda's joyful presence made our authentic experience top-notch."

"The pad Thai here is delicious, flavorful, and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available out front but can be tight during busy times.

2

Expect a wait during dinner hours, but service is fast outside of peak times.

3

The restaurant offers great gluten-free and vegetarian options.

04
Den Thai image 1
Restaurant

Modern dining area combines cozy lounge seating with an upscale bar featuring classic cocktails and a wine display. Atmosphere feels beautiful and inviting, with clean, stylish decor and comfortable booths. Unique Thai dishes and well-crafted drinks create a distinctive, uplifting vibe.

Pad Thai and Kee Mao deliver authentic Thai flavors with traditional taste. The dishes offer a very good and true-to-origin experience.

Lunch offers a very reasonable special with options like chicken larb and panang curry. Quick stops work well here, and the coconut sorbet adds a light finish.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be incredibly flavorful and authentic."

"The Thai food here tastes so authentic and flavorful."

"The flavors at this Lunch Spot are perfectly seasoned and savory."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of unique Thai dishes not found elsewhere.

3

Portion sizes are generous, often enough for multiple meals.

05
HUMMUS image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with an authentic and affordable menu offers late-night hours until 3 AM and vegan options. The atmosphere feels inviting and clean, with a kiosk ordering system that simplifies the process. Outdoor patio adds a relaxed touch, while the food stands out for its freshness and flavor.

Generous portions of authentic Mediterranean food come well seasoned and tasty. The spot serves authentic gyros and snacks with a chilled, affordable vibe.

Hummus stands out as a solid lunch choice here, often enjoyed by coworkers. Gyros come out quickly, fitting well within a typical 30-minute lunch break.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is the best I've ever had, especially the falafel."

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be authentic and well-seasoned."

"This lunch spot has great food that met my expectations."

Good to know

1

HUMMUS is open until 3 AM, making it a rare late-night dining option.

2

The restaurant offers vegan and gluten-free options for diverse dietary needs.

3

HUMMUS is very clean, providing a pleasant dining environment.

06
Krave It Pizza & Sandwich Joint & Bar image 1

Pizza restaurant offers a modern, clean, and spacious setting with multiple 65-inch 4K TVs and a full bar for entertainment. Atmosphere stays inviting and lively, perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends. Comfortable seating and great music add to the enjoyable vibe.

Slices capture authentic New York style with a clear east coast influence. Downtown location offers a genuine NYC pizza experience.

Slices come in huge sizes, available by the slice or whole pie. It works well for a quick late lunch before events.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was delicious and loaded with toppings."

"This is a great lunch spot for huge, foldable pizza slices."

"I loved the authentic East Coast pizza slice."

Good to know

1

Parking is not available at the restaurant due to its downtown location.

2

Expect pickup orders to be about 20 minutes behind the estimated time.

3

Prices start at $6 for a slice, which is reasonable for Denver.

07
Encanto Cocina & Cantina image 1

Rooftop terrace and patio offer comfortable outdoor seating with live music and DJ sets creating a lively vibe. Indoor space combines modern charm with an intimate bar serving well-crafted cocktails. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suited for groups and casual dining.

Menu offers a small but carefully curated selection of authentic Mexican dishes. Food tastes real and delicious, capturing true Mexican flavors.

Lunch feels relaxed with plenty of space after the rush. It suits celebrations and casual stops alike.

People are saying

"The food here was excellent and tasted great."

"The food here is delicious and truly authentic."

"The food here is delicious, plentiful, and beautifully plated."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $3 tacos every week.

2

Thirsty Thursday offers a free margarita with an entree.

3

Birthday celebrations include a special song and sombreros.

08
Mexico City Restaurant & Lounge image 1

Mexican restaurant with authentic steak and fried tacos serves great margaritas and offers a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Multiple TVs show football, and an open window for to-go drinks adds a unique touch. The place gets busy with tight seating but maintains incredible vibes throughout.

The food features authentic Mexican dishes with excellent tacos and fried tacos that stand out. The atmosphere and service both feel genuinely authentic.

Offers excellent lunch options alongside breakfast and dinner. Serves as a recurring lunch spot with a menu that satisfies midday cravings.

People are saying

"I found the fried steak tacos to be the best I ever had."

"The tacos at this Lunch Spot are super yum and fantastic."

"I loved their authentic fried tacos; they were so crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The happy taco hour runs from 3pm to 6pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a wait time of 10 to 40 minutes for food on non-busy days.

3

Parking is difficult on weekends but easier on weekdays.

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Five Points, Denver

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